New York Hospital Queens Kicks Off New Lunar New Year Today

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon- (718) 670-2515
crm9002@nyp.org

Flushing, New York, February 3, 2011-- New York
Hospital Queens celebrated the start of the “Year of the Rabbit,” on
this the first day of the Lunar New Year, early this morning with the
birth of a healthy boy born at 3:08 a.m. to a family from Ozone Park,
N.Y. Among the first gifts the family and baby received were a $1,000
savings bond, flowers and a gift basket from the hospital.

Throughout the month, the hospital will host activities traditionally
celebrated during this festive time such as dragon dancing, singing
performances, gifts for patients and an Asian-style lunch to pay homage
to Asian culture. New York Hospital Queens is also participating in the
15th Annual Lunar New Year parade in downtown Flushing on February 12.

The Lunar New Year celebration is one of the most important holidays
celebrated in many Asian cultures. The actual date of the Lunar New Year
is determined by the moon's cycle. It starts at midnight on the night of
the second new moon after the winter solstice. The animal designation of
the year is based on the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. Each animal
sign holds special symbolism. The rabbit is a symbol of creativity,
compassion and charisma.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian
Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of
Cornell University.

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Note to editors: The family of our first 2011 Lunar New Year baby wish
to remain anonymous.